The Nigerian Correctional Service has denied allegations that its officers stole valuables belonging to inmates during a routine search operation at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, Abuja.
The Service described the reports as false, misleading and inconsistent with established custodial procedures, insisting that the operation was conducted professionally and in line with Standard Operating Procedures.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Service Public Relations Officer, Jane Osuji, the NCoS said the exercise was a routine security search aimed at maintaining order, discipline and security within the facility, adding that all recovered prohibited items were duly processed and documented.
It also dismissed claims that inmates were robbed of valuables reportedly worth over N120m, saying the allegations were not supported by official records.
“The Service wishes to categorically state that the allegation is false, misleading, and inconsistent with the operational realities and established procedures governing custodial facilities in the country,” the statement said.
